Reverend McDowell agrees with me in spirit, but when I pressed him to preach publicly what he says to me in private, he refused. “Pray and wait,” he told me. “Pray and act,” I snapped. “Pray and speak!” How could I marry someone who displays such cowardice? I have no choice now but to leave his church. I’ve decided to follow in your steps and become a Quaker. I shudder to think of the gruesome dresses and the barren meetinghouse, but my course is set. Fine riddance to Israel! Be consoled in knowing the world depends upon the small beating in your heart. Yours, Nina
